Ferdinand backs Di Maria to succeed at Man United

Former Manchester United defender Rio Ferdinand has backed Angel di Maria to overcome a poor run of form and prove to be an excellent signing for the club.

Di Maria joined Man United from Real Madrid in a £59m move last summer and enjoyed a fine start to life at Old Trafford but his form has took a dramatic downturn since the start of the year.

Injuries and burglars breaking into his house haven’t helped and his confidence has certainly dipped as well to the point where the Argentine was hauled off by Louis van Gaal in United’s recent games against Sunderland and Newcastle United before being dismissed against Arsenal in the FA Cup on Monday.

Di Maria’s form has concerned a number of United fans but Ferdinand is convinced he has all the qualities to succeed in England.

Speaking about Di Maria, Ferdinand said: ”I thought Di Maria was a great signing for United, and I still think he was a good signing because he is a top player.

“He was arguably Madrid’s best player last year — him and [Cristiano] Ronaldo were their stand-out players. I think he is a highly talented player.

“But it always takes time for a player to adapt to his new surroundings, especially when you go to a foreign league.

“Not every player can be like Ronaldo and just turn up and instantly become a superstar. Maybe it will take Di Maria a bit longer. It might take him a year, you never know.

“But his style does suit the Premier League. He is quick, runs at people, hungry to create chances and commit people. I think he is a very talented player and I like him.”

Ferdinand knows all about the pressure of being a record signing having joined United from Leeds United for £30m in 2002.

Di Maria undoubtedly has the talent to turn his fortunes around but what was once a blip is threatening to become the norm. Perhaps his one-game ban against Tottenham Hotspur on Sunday will allow the 27-year-old to prepare himself mentally for the final few games of the season.

About The Author

Ben graduated with a first-class honours degree in Journalism from the University of Sheffield and he was The Peoples Person's co-editor between March 2015-16. He is now a regular contributor and freelancer.